SOCOM: U.S. Navy SEALs Allows Players to Command Their Teammates Through Revolutionary Voice-Recognition and Online Communication Technology For Playstation®2

Verbal Commands and Audio Responses Available During Gameplay With State-of-the-Art SOCOM USB Headset

PRNewswire
LOS ANGELES
05/20/2002

Sony Computer Entertainment America Inc. announced that SOCOM: U.S. Navy SEALs will be the first-ever software title for the PlayStation®2 computer entertainment system released in North America to support voice-recognition technology through the use of the SOCOM USB headset. Developed by Logitech, the SOCOM USB headset allows players to verbally communicate with both artificial intelligence (A.I.) and fellow human teammates through single-player and online modes of SOCOM: U.S. Navy SEALs. Available in August 2002, the SOCOM USB headset will be bundled with SOCOM: U.S. Navy SEALs at a retail price of $59.99.

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In SOCOM: U.S. Navy SEALs, teamwork and stealth are crucial elements of the gameplay. As the team commander, players must instruct their team on a mission, either through voice-recognition technology via the SOCOM USB headset or by selecting the appropriate commands through the on-screen TCM (Team Command Menu). Utilizing the SOCOM USB headset in single-player mode, players can actualize the mission with their SEAL team through an authoritative list of commands that control the A.I. teammates who respond and follow orders appropriately. In the online mode, the SOCOM USB headset will allow gamers to communicate directly with other players nationwide, allowing them to coordinate detailed tactics and work more effectively as a team. In addition, sub-channels are available so that you can split up your online team into offensive and defensive groups.

"SOCOM provides players with an exclusive, in-depth education on the U.S. Navy SEALS through game design, mission objectives and military strategy developed in association with the U.S. Naval Special Warfare," said Ami Blaire, director, product marketing, Sony Computer Entertainment Inc. "With the availability of the first-ever PlayStation 2 USB headset for both single- player and online modes, players will experience an unprecedented immersive gameplay experience that raises the bar for future titles."

About the SOCOM USB headset

Developed by Logitech, the SOCOM USB headset allow players to communicate with teammates and artificial intelligence while being kept informed on the tactical situation from each team member and SOCOM (Special Operations COMmand). While commanding via the SOCOM USB headset, there are three directives that the player must follow: WHO, WHAT and either WHERE or HOW. Based on these directives, the player can issue Movement or Tactical commands based on the situation-at-hand.

  SOCOM USB headset specifications:

   Height:   7.5 inches
   Width:    5.5 inches
   Depth:    2.75 inches
   Weight:   .75 pounds

For more information regarding the United States Navy SEALs visit http://www.seal.navy.mil/ and http://www.swcc.navy.mil/

The independent Entertainment Software Rating Board (ESRB) has rated SOCOM: U.S. Navy SEALs "M" for Mature. For more information about the ESRB visit http://www.esrb.org/.

About Sony Computer Entertainment America

Sony Computer Entertainment America Inc. continues to redefine the entertainment lifestyle with its PlayStation® and PS one™ game console, and the PlayStation®2 computer entertainment system. The PlayStation 2 computer entertainment system is set to revolutionize the home entertainment market, offering the most compelling interactive content and the capability to be used as a network terminal in the coming broadband era.

Recognized as the undisputed industry leader, Sony Computer Entertainment America Inc. markets the PlayStation family of products and develops, publishes, markets and distributes software for the PS one game console and the PlayStation 2 computer entertainment system for the North American market. Based in Foster City, Calif. Sony Computer Entertainment America Inc. serves as headquarters for all North American operations and is a wholly-owned subsidiary of Sony Computer Entertainment Inc.

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SOURCE: Sony Computer Entertainment America Inc.

Contact: Patrick Seybold, +1-650-655-5904, or
patrick_seybold@playstation.sony.com; or Ryan Bowling, +1-650-655-3657, or
ryan_bowling@playstation.sony.com, both of Sony Computer Entertainment America
Inc.

Website: http://www.playstation.com/

Website: http://www.scea.com/